Back to Casablanca

We were nearing the end of our stay in Morocco and it felt good to stay locally for a couple of days.

This is the view from the waterfront just a few minutes from Najia's home: the Hassan II mosque (more next time).

There's always time to play on the swings...

...the seesaw...

...or even just relax!

Back at Najia's, Selim and your faithful blogger having a bit of bonding time 😂

Back to the waterfront...

...it's strange to think this is the Atlantic Ocean, just like La Tranche.

Walking along, I liked the way they 'disguised' communication towers as palm trees!

Time to turn back at the El Hank lighthouse, 51m high.

Rabat (3) The Kasbah of the Udayas

We were impressed by Rabat, with plenty to see.

The Kasbah (or Citadel) dates back to the 12th century...

...with views over the Bou Regreg river's estuary...

...and beach.

The magnificent main Almohad gate, Bab Oudaia...

...and a traditional Moroccan door.

Looking back to the Kasbah...

...making our way to the medina (walled city)...

...with not-too-busy market areas...

...and inner courtyards.

I would definitely recommend a visit!

Rabat (2) Mausoleum of Mohammed V

We were taken down into Rabat, starting with a walk around the mausoleum of Mohammed V.

The Mausoleum contains the tombs of King Mohammed V and his two sons King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah

Inside was very ornate but it was well worth while looking up

The guard seemed more than happy to have his photo taken with us!

Across the square are renovations of the ruined Almohad-era mosque...

...with the Hassan Tower in prominent view

Part of the mosque's original walls.

The cloudy sky definitely gave our visit an atmosphere.

Rabat (1)

We caught the train from Marrakech to Rabat where Mehdi's auntie picked us up, taking us to her home to the south of the city.

The station at Marrakech was very impressive.

Najia on the right with her two sisters. Lovely people!

Just look at the auntie's house...

...amazing.

Tine in the garden by the pool (& Mehdi's feet).

Young Selim enjoyed a bit of pool time with his Papa.

Food!

One thing you can't say is that you don't eat well in Morocco!

On our return to Marrakech we were invited out for a meal by one of Najia's friends, Ann-Marie.

The restaurant was out of town in a beautiful spot...

...and we were instantly comfortable with Ann-Marie despite not meeting her before. (I hope you notice the wine glasses: the only time we had alcohol in 10 days!)

Just look at the spread of food, and these were just the starters!

An idyllic spot but what a great evening.

On our return to Casablanca we had another meal out at Le Sqala restaurant.

Élodie, Selim & Mehdi tucking in...

...yet another feast.

Selim enjoying the music too.

Another day we were invited to other friends of the family and we were served this giant couscous. Although totally delicious we didn't do the dish justice. It was enormous!

Trip to the Red Mountains (2)

We had an amazing young guide who took us up the very tricky valley to the first waterfall.

Setti Fadma

The busy walk along the banks of the Ourika

Walking up the valley there were many opportunities to spend. Here soft drinks cooled by stream water...

...and artisans showing off their wares.

At last we reached the first waterfall. We weren't alone!

On the return trek you could even pick your wedding outfit!

Back in the main valley it's time to eat, with good food and local music.